Truist Park, just outside of downtown Atlanta, is becoming the hottest place in MLB. The Atlanta Braves are 11-5 after taking a series against four of last year’s playoff teams and preparing for a weekend series against the World Series champions Texas Rangers. The major reason for their early season success is all on the shoulders of their Big Bear DH, Marcell Ozuna.
All eyes on your The Braves and the Astros series this week, with the Astros struggling and the Braves leading in the NL despite stifling injuries. Ozuna entered Wednesday’s game on a 15-game hit streak and was down one run early to the Astros. The fans were eager to see if he could continue his impressive run. Ozuna stepped up to the plate in the second inning and delivered a mighty game-tieing solo home run, extending his hit streak to 16 games.
Good afternoon from Big Bear!#BravesCountry pic.twitter.com/QYV12FXfSt
— Atlanta Braves (@Braves) April 17, 2024
Ozuna’s Remarkable Season
Ozuna’s hit streak is just part of his exceptional performance this season. With this home run against the Houston Astros, he has now hit eight home runs in 16 games, keeping him on pace for an astonishing 81 home runs this season. His batting average is .368, and his OBPS is 1.184. His dominance at the plate is becoming problematic and fascinating. These impressive statistics have catapulted Ozuna to the top of various MLB rankings, including home runs and RBIs, and opened eyes to the possibility of becoming the first true DH to win MVP.
The Impact on the Braves
Ozuna’s incredible performance has significantly impacted the Braves’ success this season. His consistent hitting and ability to drive in runs have provided a much-needed boost to the team’s offense. Outside of Ozuna, there is a little bit of a power shortage in Atlanta.
Matt Olsen and Austin Riley, slated to belt 80 between them, have only sent five yard. With zero from Ronald Acuna Jr. that’s just 50 projected for the season for Acuna, Olsen, and Riley. Big Bear’s contributions have single-handedly secured important victories and maintained their position as the big threat in the NL East.
Ozuna is 3 for 9 with a dinger, two RBIs, two runs, and two walk as the Braves look to sweep the Hoston Astros on Wednesday. Next, the Braves host the defending World Series champion Texas Rangers this week in the biggest series of the weekend. Can Big Bear extend this streak through this tough series? We hope so; The Braves will need him. No one is ready to mention the Clipper’s name yet, but a 20-game-hit streak is something to pay attention to, especially with the HR pace he is on.
Main Image: Thomas Shea-USA TODAY Sports
